Councillor Cesar Palacio (Ward 17 Davenport), Chair of the City of Toronto's Licensing and Standards Committee, tossed the first ball this morning at the City's newest dog park, located at Toronto Animal Services' North Shelter. Made possible by donations from Toronto residents, Lost and Found Park, adjacent to the shelter at 1300 Sheppard Ave. W., will be used by dogs waiting for adoption and by the general public in the shelter's off-hours.

"We are thankful to our generous donors who have helped to make the Lost and Found Park possible," said Councillor Palacio. "This park is a welcome addition to the shelter and will provide an amazing experience for dogs to enjoy for years to come."

"The opening of Lost and Found Park provides the first off-leash dog park for Ward 8 residents to enjoy with their dogs," said Councillor Anthony Perruzza (Ward 8 York West). "Having two city divisions, Municipal Licensing & Standards and Parks, Forestry & Recreation work in partnership to make this happen is a great example of efficient and effective service to the public."

The idea for Lost and Found Park was born when a group of at-risk youth, Best Friends Forever, wanted to participate in a building project that provided shade for the shelter dogs. The group, led by the Toronto Police Service and funded by ProAction, volunteers to walk and train the dogs at the North Shelter.

"The Toronto Police Service is proud of the Best Friends Forever program," said Chief of Police, Bill Blair. "It is an excellent way to engage at-risk youth in something positive while interacting with police officers and providing value to the community. Being in a comfortable environment allows the police and youth a chance to talk about real-life issues that affect community safety."

Outdoor design and lifestyle expert Carson Arthur of television's Room to Grow, Green Force and Cityline, agreed to donate the park design and his project management experience to make the park a reality.

Lost and Found Park is a fully landscaped area featuring separated play areas, shade structures, a tunnel, a dog playhouse and a rubberized training track.

Toronto Animal Services provides care for thousands of unwanted, abandoned or lost animals each year.

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